Cover From private islands to high-end spas, the rise of babymoons reflects a growing desire for meaningful, tranquil travel experiences designed to celebrate pregnancy (Photo: Getty Images)
From private islands to high-end spas, the rise of babymoons reflects a growing desire for meaningful, tranquil travel experiences designed to celebrate pregnancy (Photo: Getty Images)
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From private islands to high-end spas, the rise of babymoons reflects a growing desire for meaningful, tranquil travel experiences designed to celebrate pregnancy
Preparing for a new addition to the family can be overwhelming, which is why carving out time for you and your partner to relax and reconnect before the baby arrives can be a valuable gift. This presents the perfect opportunity for a “babymoon”. For the uninitiated, a babymoon is a term that describes a short getaway for couples just before they welcome their new bub. These vacations have gained popularity over the years, providing expectant couples a chance to rest and reconnect before the start of a new journey in parenthood.
The concept of babymoons has evolved significantly since its inception. A blend of the words ‘baby’ and ‘honeymoon’, the earliest known use of the term babymoon appeared in the writings of childbirth expert Sheila Kitzinger in her 1996 book The Year After Childbirth. Back then, she coined the term as a time after a baby’s birth when parents focused on bonding with their newborn. Back then, the definition of the term emphasised rest and connection rather than travel.
Over time, the definition shifted to describe a pre-birth getaway for expectant parents—a honeymoon-like retreat taken before the arrival of the baby. This modern interpretation gained traction in the 2000s, where high-profile figures and celebrities popularised luxurious prenatal vacations to exotic destinations—even Prince William and Catherine, the Princess of Wales, jetted off to the Caribbean for a quick getaway before the birth of their firstborn, Prince George.
Above Babymoon is defined as a getaway for couples to relax and enjoy time together before the demands of parenthood begins (Photo: Getty Images)
Babymoon is defined as a getaway for couples to relax and enjoy time together before the demands of parenthood begins (Photo: Getty Images)
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Today, the babymoon trend continues to grow, reflecting a need for intentional rest and connection. While babymoons were once a niche phenomenon fuelled by celebrities, these trips have become an expression of anticipatory celebration and self-care before the arrival of a new family member.
Skyscanner travel trends and destination expert Cyndi Hui shares that babymoons have become an emerging global travel trend, gaining popularity, even in Singapore, over the past year. “Singapore ranked fifth globally on Google Trends for interest by region in the search term ‘babymoon’,” she notes.
Hui adds that the increase in popularity for these quick getaways could be driven by a growing awareness of mental and physical well-being, particularly for expectant mothers. According to Skyscanner’s 2025 travel trend report ‘Reset Jetters’, 77 per cent of travellers believe that holidays can help “build resilience and strength, enabling them to better manage the stresses of daily life”.
Above Thuymi and her husband Mitch on their babymoon in the Maldives (Photo: Instagram / @Thuymi)
Thuymi and her husband Mitch on their babymoon in the Maldives (Photo: Instagram / @Thuymi)
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Marketing professional and content creator Thuymi Do shares how taking a babymoon trip was a must for her and her husband. Their babymoon was focused on doing activities they enjoy, taking photos to capture the moment and to relax before the “craziness of having a kid arrives”. The travel enthusiast further highlights: “[We wanted to do this because] travelling with the kid will not be the same. We wanted to travel one last time together before it was no longer just us two.”
With the increasing popularity of such short trips, hotels and resorts around the world now offer experiences to cater to this growing trend, offering wellness and relaxation packages tailored to the needs of expectant parents. Below, we highlight some of the best destinations to visit around Asia for a quick babymoon getaway before the little one arrives.
Note: Expectant mothers going on babymoons should consult their doctor on whether it is safe for them to travel, the best time to travel as well as the precautions to take.
1. Phuket, Thailand
Above Phuket provides a peaceful backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation (Photo: Getty Images)
Phuket provides a peaceful backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation (Photo: Getty Images)
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With crystal-clear waters, rich cultural experiences and stunning tropical landscapes, Phuket provides a peaceful backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation. Beyond its natural beauty, the island also charms with its quaint towns and vibrant street markets.
Stay at: The Slate Phuket and Andara Resort & Villas
Do recommends staying at The Slate Phuket. Designed by architect Bill Bensley, this 25-acre resort is a nod to the tin mining legacy of the Na-Ranong family, Phuket’s former governor and prominent figure in the island’s tin mining industry. Stay at the One Bedroom Pool Villa and be pampered with a private garden, private pool, steam room, personal butler service and more. At the spa, soon-to-be mums can indulge in its Pregnancy Massage. The session sees specially trained therapists use safe and soothing techniques to alleviate aches and pains.
Along with The Slate Phuket, Do also recommends Andara Resort & Villas. Couples looking for a private getaway can stay in one of the resort’s many villas. The 1160 sqm space features spacious living and lounging areas, private gardens and an infinity pool that overlooks stunning sea views. You won’t need to leave the villa as your private in-villa chef will prepare breakfast for you each day. Other in-room meals curated by the private chef are also available at an additional cost. Along with in-room dining, spa treatments can also be enjoyed in the comfort of your villa.
2. Maldives
Above Head to the Maldives for a private island getaway (Photo: Getty Images)
Head to the Maldives for a private island getaway (Photo: Getty Images)
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Head to the Maldives for a private island getaway. Along with clear turquoise waters and pristine white beaches, the island offers a myriad of resorts perfect for a secluded babymoon.
Stay at: Nooe Maldives Kunaavashi
Nooe Maldives Kunaavashi is a luxurious beachfront resort in the stunning Vaavu Atoll, well-loved for its vibrant marine life and natural beauty. You’ll want to visit the Thari Spa by Mandara, a sanctuary offering relaxing nature-inspired treatments that balance the mind, body and spirit. Along with wellness experiences, the resort also offers plenty of water activities from snorkelling to sandbank picnics.
3. Hoi An, Vietnam
Above Those looking for a mix of cultural charm and relaxation can visit Hoi An, Vietnam (Photo: Getty Images)
Those looking for a mix of cultural charm and relaxation can visit Hoi An, Vietnam (Photo: Getty Images)
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Those looking for a mix of cultural charm and relaxation can visit Hoi An, Vietnam. Explore ancient towns that are listed as United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) sites and experience the city’s rich heritage before unwinding in one of its many beachfront resorts. Hoi An’s slower pace of life also makes it a great destination for expectant mothers looking to prioritise their well-being and recharge before the baby arrives.
Stay at: Victoris Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa
Located along Cua Dai beach, there’s plenty to do at Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa. From lounging by the infinity pool to catching a show in the Magic theatre room, guests won’t be short of activities without even leaving the property. For experiences that take you outside, options include sidecar tours and catamaran cruises.
4. Ubud, Indonesia
Above Experience a slow, nature-filled escape at Amandari (Photo: Amandari)
Experience a slow, nature-filled escape at Amandari (Photo: Amandari)
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Expectant parents who feel most at peace while surrounded by lush greenery can consider a trip to Ubud for a slow, nature-filled escape. There’s plenty to look forward to while you’re here, from indulging in farm-to-table experiences to visiting organic farm plantations.
Stay at: Amandari
Perched above the lush Ayung River Valley is Amandari, an exquisite retreat complete with stunning landscapes, privacy and thoughtful wellness offerings. The resort’s luxurious villas are Balinese-style homes, surrounded by cascading rice terraces and views of Ayung River Valley. Each villa features a fully-equipped kitchen, private garden, swimming pool, landscaped deck and more.
5. Izu, Shizuoka, Japan
Above Various ryokans and resorts in Izu also cater to expectant mothers (Photo: Getty Images)
Various ryokans and resorts in Izu also cater to expectant mothers (Photo: Getty Images)
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This Japanese peninsula is renowned for its soothing hot springs, scenic ocean vistas and fresh seafood. Various ryokans and resorts in Izu also cater to expectant mothers, from offering pregnancy-friendly meals to wellness-focused amenities.
Stay at: Ochiairou
After a day of exploring, unwind in one of Ochiairou’s 16 uniquely designed rooms. Founded in 1874, this hot spring hotel is surrounded by the peninsula’s majestic mountains. When it comes to food, it offers meals that include locally sourced seasonal ingredients. Those looking to enjoy a relaxing hot spring bath will be pampered with three different baths to choose from. The Tengu no You is an open-air bath overlooking the Izu mountains and the Kano river, while the Moon bath is a spacious indoor bath designed to resemble a Japanese teahouse.
Note: Expectant mothers should consult a doctor before visiting a hot spring.
Amanda Goh was the former senior writer for Tatler Singapore.
